Top Tips for the Motoring Backpacker

Travelling around Australia can be a daunting task if your by yourself and getting to from A to B should be the least of your worries. Here are some top tips for getting around, meeting people and just having the time of your life.




Budget

It’s important to budget especially if on a longer holiday, make sure you plan out a budget, stick to it, and keep track of money spent. If you're on a Working Holiday Visa, you may be able to get work to supplement your budget, but this is never assured. Keeping spending in check will ensure a much more relaxing, worry-free holiday.

Transportation

There are many backpacker car markets, but buying a car can be a bit risky, not to mention expensive. You could also hire a car, but motoring backpackers should seriously consider hiring a campervan. Campervans are inspected for safety by the companies that own them, they provide shelter – allowing you to camp in far-off areas – and they'll likely save you money on accommodation. Be sure to check on any restrictions; some companies limit where you can drive a campervan. And if you're planning on exploring the Outback, a four wheel drive campervan is probably best.

Be Safety-Conscious

Always tell someone when you're departing and when you expect to return – and make sure to update them if plans change. You don't want emergency services searching for you unless it's a real emergency. Also make sure to stay aware of your surroundings. Travellers are often preyed upon. They don't know the area well and they may trust the wrong people. Keep this in mind and follow your instincts. And you should always have reliable communication, especially if you plan to explore the Outback. Mobile coverage can be spotty or nonexistent, so look into satellite phones, two-way radios, or emergency beacons.


Be Health-Conscious

Make sure you're healthy before you leave on your trip. Get all necessary vaccinations for your destination and if you are on any medication, bring enough for the whole trip and then some – just in case. Check with tourism offices and health professionals to see if there are any diseases prevalent in your destination area. You should also bring a first aid kit with basic medical necessities as well as an emergency contact name kept on your person and in your luggage. Some travellers choose to wear medical identification bracelets that give vital information should anything happen to them – medical conditions, allergies, and so on.

Socialise with Other Backpackers


Other backpackers will have experience and may have suggestions for the best places to visit and best things to do. Of course, every experience is individual, but fellow travellers can be a resource, especially if your schedule is spontaneous and not rigidly-planned. You might even make long-lasting friends.




Document Your Trip

Photos, journal entries, video diaries, travel blogs – in whatever way you want, make sure to document your trip. Australia is vast and motoring offers you the opportunity to easily travel great distances. Don't forget where you've been and what you've done.

Try Different Things

Although backpacking is hardly for the timid, be sure to step out of your comfort zone and experience different things on your trip. Don't return home with regrets – if you have the opportunity to do something, do it. You'll be glad of it when looking back.


Australia and New Zealand offer backpacker campervan rentals and information if you're trying to see all you can, backpacker campervan hire may be the best option so you have the freedom to go and stay where you please. Follow your whim, but do plan for the unforeseen.

Article Source: Top Tips for the Motoring Backpacker